Estimating I-130 processing times can be very difficult. But it is extremely helpful to understand the difference between immediate relative and family preference categories as well as the basics of family-based immigration in the United States.

I-130 Processing Times for Immediate Relatives

For immediate relatives (spouse, children and parents) of U.S. citizens, there is an unlimited number of immigrant visas and approval can be obtained in approximately 5-9 months. There is a short wait because there is no visa limit for the immediate relative category. Immediate relative visa categories include:

Did you know minor mistakes on your Form I-130 can cause costly delays and rejections? Prepare your I-130 petition quickly and correctly with CitizenPath. The attorney-reviewed software guides you through the petition and provides help to answer questions like this one. And personalized filing instructions help you to file your petition today knowing that you did everything right! No credit card or signup required to try it. Get started now >>

I-130 Processing Times for Family Preference

For all other categories, the time frame to receive an approval on Form I-130 can be significantly longer. It may be as short as 5 months for some categories but several years for other categories. U.S. law limits the number of immigrant visa numbers that are available each year for the family preference categories. This backlog creates the wait. Family preference visa categories include:

F1 (Family First Preference): Unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and their minor children, if any.

Priority Dates & Visa Bulletin

For family preference petitions, your relative’s “place in line” will be based on the date you file your Form I-130 petition. This is known as the priority date. Therefore, there’s an advantage to filing as soon as possible.

Even once USCIS approves the I-130 petition, it must also be current before your relative can apply for a green card. When an I-130 petition is current, that’s the equivalent of moving to the front of the line. More precisely, it means that a visa number is available. To monitor their place in line, many people monitor the U.S. Department of State’s visa bulletin. Learn how to read the visa bulletin.